It was difficult to fly on a private plane until recently unless you had one, paid for membership, or knew someone who could reserve one for you. Ah, yes. Private jet charters used to be a privilege reserved for the wealthy, famous, and elite. But that is no longer the case.
Private air travel is available to anyone, regardless of their status. Businesspeople and frequent travelers are choosing to fly private rather than paying for first-class on commercial airlines. These are five ways to save money when chartering a private jet.
What is the cost of flying private?
Although chartering a private aircraft can still cost you a few thousand dollars to $12,000, the costs are not nearly as high as they were in the past.
As of late, jet charter companies have been offering more last-minute and discounted deals. You might be surprised to learn that prices can drop to half the cost of business-class tickets if you know where to look.
Although discounts and deals are important in making private flights more affordable for the general public, there are other factors that can also play a part in closing this gap. Clients can view, book, and schedule flights through apps and websites which makes it easier to make bookings.
Private jet companies are now operating on more flexible terms due to the increasing competition in the market. You can now book single seats or an empty flight on private jets at a fraction of the cost.
Compare the prices of private jet charter companies.
When booking commercial airline seats, you compare prices. Chartering private jets is no different. Even after visiting dozens of websites, sometimes the price range is still a bit high.
These are just a few tips to help you save money chartering private jets.
Look for empty leg flights.
When a client books a jet only for a single-way trip, it means that there are no passengers returning to the base. This is called empty legs or backhaul flight. Operators will often offer empty legs at a huge discount to ensure that the plane does not return empty.
It is common to have empty legs between cities that are frequently visited. It shouldn’t take long to find a backhaul flight that is at least 50% cheaper if you fly between Los Angeles, Miami, or New York.
However, empty-leg flights may not be for everyone. These deals often come up last-minute so you need to be flexible with your schedule.
To share the cost of a private jet charter, find a group that will join you.
Chartering a jet means that you will pay for the whole plane, regardless of how many passengers it holds. You can share the flight with others who are heading in the same direction if there are still empty seats.
It would be more expensive per head to fly with only two or three people, so consider flying with a group of people and splitting the costs. Although there will be less privacy, think about the savings you’ll make!
Opt for a private charter with no frills.
Flying private is about luxury, comfort and extras. If you are looking to save a few thousand on your private jet charter, the “no frills” option might be right for you.
You might be asking yourself, “Is it possible?”
Many jet charter companies offer no-frills options to their clients. You may be able to survive without champagne or in-flight food if you are confident you will be able to pay a lower charter rate.
Charter a smaller plane?
It is said that bigger is better. Private flights are not the most cost-efficient, however.
You might consider a smaller aircraft if you are looking to cut down on the cost of your private jet charter. This is especially true if you live just an hour away from your destination. The same comfort, convenience, and travel time but at a lower price!
Chartering a private plane is the best way of traveling.
It is a good idea to arrive at least three hours before departure. This is one of the most important rules in air travel. This rule doesn’t apply if you charter a private plane. Your plane will still be waiting for you even if your arrival is a little late.
Private jets are the most convenient and efficient way to travel to your destination. Think about it. No crowded terminals, no waiting in line and, most importantly, no delayed flights. Sounds like heaven, doesn’t it?